Tuesday, November 24, 2009

MS Society of Canada announces request for research operating grants related to CCSVI and MS

Toronto, ON – November 23, 2009 – The Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada announced it will request research operating grants related to chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency (CCSVI) and MS.

A recent study released by Dr. Paulo Zamboni, University of Ferrara, Italy, describes CCSVI as a disruption of blood flow in which the venous system is not able to efficiently remove blood from the central nervous system resulting in increased pressure in the veins of the brain and spinal cord which in turn results in damage to these areas.

“These early results are encouraging and show that this warrants more study,” said Yves Savoie, MS Society President and CEO. “This is truly a new avenue to explore in MS research, and we want to be a part of furthering this investigation.”

The MS Society of Canada will issue an invitation for research operating grant proposals on CCSVI related to multiple sclerosis from qualified investigators based in Canadian institutions. Proposals will be evaluated for their scientific merit and relevance to the field of MS.The competition will open on December 9, 2009, and the deadline for applications will be January 22, 2010.

“There has been tremendous interest and excitement about this study from people with MS, supporters, volunteers and staff across the country. While we acknowledge that the concept of CCSVI as a cause of MS needs to be replicated and validated in larger well-designed studies, the Society looks forward to contributing to this body of work,” said Savoie.

While excited about the potential of the CCSVI study, the findings are preliminary. Thus the MS Society advises that while further research is underway people follow their physician's recommendations and continue their current course of therapies.

About multiple sclerosis and the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada Multiple sclerosis is a chronic, often disabling disease of the brain and spinal cord. It is the most common neurological disease of young adults in Canada. Most people with MS are diagnosed between the ages of 15 and 40, and the unpredictable effects of MS last for the rest of their lives.

The Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada is the only national volunteer health agency in Canada that funds MS research, provides services for people with MS and family members and conducts public education programs. Since its founding in 1948, the MS Society has worked to hasten the discovery of the cause, effective treatment and cure for MS. From basic laboratoryresearch to the development of new treatments for people with MS, the MS Society’s research program is making a difference in people’s lives today.

The MS Society also provides services to people who have multiple sclerosis and family members through its seven division offices and more than 120 chapters. MS Society volunteers and staff are also actively involved in educating health care professionals about MS and its treatment, in public awareness programs and in government relations and advocacy.

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